Washington, United States: Troon is partnering with the National Links Trust (NLT), a non-profit entity formed to preserve and protect affordable, accessible and architecturally engaging public access golf, to manage the operations for East Potomac Park, Langston and Rock Creek Park golf courses in Washington, DC. 

The NLT was recently selected by the National Park Service (NPS) to negotiate a long-term lease for the rehab and operation of the three historic golf properties. The goal of the NPS and NLT is to have a lease in place no later than September 30.

Golf course architects Tom Doak, Gil Hanse and Beau Welling will provide design services for renovation work on the courses, while golf developer Mike Keiser is serving as Senior Advisor to the NLT. The NLT is also partnering with civic, philanthropic and environmental organisations such as First Tee of Greater Washington, DC, Golf. My Future. My Game and Anacostia Watershed.

“Troon is proud, and honoured, to be part of the National Links Trust’s all-star team and share in their vision and commitment to bring these historic courses back to their original prominence,” said Tim Schantz, President and Chief Executive Officer, Troon, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation. “We look forward to being a part of delivering accessible, affordable and engaging public golf to the DC area.”

The NLT has proposed a multi-year, multi-million-dollar investment in the restoration and rehabilitation of the golf properties, while simultaneously developing and maintaining environmentally sound open spaces and parks for the benefit of the community, both golfers and non-golfers.

“These properties are more than just golf courses,” said Michael McCartin, Co-Founder of NLT. “They are unique cultural and recreational resources with a long and commendable record of offering affordable access to the game of golf. Our plan calls for celebrating the history of the three golf courses, particularly their role in the integration of public golf and recreational facilities in both the greater Washington DC area and the nation.

“We are honoured to take on the responsibility of revitalising these remarkable properties and look forward to expanding recreational opportunities for under-served communities, including seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities and those new to golf.”